Facts About Miniature Dachshund Puppies

Miniature dachshunds are cute and adorable, and a wonderful pet to have at home. This article gives you some more information about the puppies of this breed, so that it will be easier for you to adjust to their temperament and they to yours. Read on for more information...

If you are not allowed to have large dogs in your apartment, you could always opt for a miniature dachshund. They are small, and thus do not need much space. They are also easy to handle and make great house pets as well as guard dogs. The history of this breed goes back to more than 300 years ago, in Germany. There, dachshunds were used to hunt badgers.

History

The term 'dachshund' comes from the German word 'dach', which means badger, and 'hund', which means dog. The physical structure of the dogs―their short and slender body, and short legs―and their keen sense of smell made them good hunter dogs both above and below the ground, and they were also good at tracking animals. In the 19th century, these dogs were introduced in the United States.

Appearance

They have a cylindrical body, with short but muscular paws. They generally weigh less than 5 kg when they are born. From birth, these dogs have large, paddle-shaped paws, which help them dig easily. Its long nose allows it to catch scents from a great distance. These puppies can come in a single color such as brown and cream, or in two-tone combinations such as black and brown, or chocolate or fawn, each with tan-colored markings on their eyes, the sides of their jaws, the inner edge of the ear, their underlip, their breast, paws, and around their anal region.

Temperament

Dachshunds, especially the puppies, are playful dogs who love to spend time with their masters and carry out exercises. One negative dog behavior of this breed is that they can be a bit stubborn. But they can be trained with patience and with love. These dachshunds are very friendly, and once they get to know a person, they will become very amiable with them. But if they do not like a particular person, no matter how many times they meet them, they will never get along with them.

These dogs are clever and brave, and that is why they were used as hunting dogs. They make good guard dogs, and they are always ready to challenge a dog twice their size. It can be a funny sight when you see a tiny dachshund trying to attack a full-grown German Shepherd. These dogs also love company, and can never stay alone without their loved ones. They are loyal, and love you no matter how you treat them.

Health and Care

Back problems are common among dachshunds, as they have a long spinal column and a short rib cage. Hence, proper care from a very young age is important. Care should be taken so that they do not become obese, as obesity can cause severe health problems. Also, make sure that while they are playing or exercising, they should not jump too high, as it exerts undue pressure on their spine.

You also have to take care of the puppies from worms and other kinds of infection. Strictly monitor their diet and put them lots of engaging exercises. A properly looked-after mini dachshund can live for up to 16 years.